Kitchen Island: How to Choose and Lighting Tips

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Regardless of the size and shape of a kitchen, having more counter space will always be helpful. In this case, an island will help achieve that. It provides you more space for prep, storage, and seating. Also, if you choose a proper island, it will complement the kitchen’s style as well. For this, you will need to find the right island for you. Don’t worry, we will help you. Below arewhat you need to consider when choosing an island.

Function
First and foremost is the function. The purpose of a kitchen is to be the place for preparing food. An island certainly helps in this purpose. For example, an island can be used as storage to store your less-used utensils. You can turn it into a kitchen pantry, too. Or, you can also use it as a place where your guests congregate while you prepare the food. An island can serve multiple purposes, albeit it is a good idea if you choose based on a primary purpose you want it to do.

Features
What kind of features are you looking for in a kitchen island table? For example, some islands have a sink for food preparation or bar work. On the other hand, there are also islands who allow you to incorporate a small fridge to store beverages. Some others, allow you to seat four persons for a meal. Find an island which has features that will fit your need best.

Design
Most kitchen island design is rectangular, about 2 to 3 feet wide and up to 7 feet long. That said, it is not a must to choose a rectangular island. There are also other designs as well. For example, narrowly rectangular, square, oval and even circle.
Of course, each comes with advantages and disadvantages. In choosing, it depends entirely on what purpose you want. If you want to maximize seating options, an oval island will be your best option. If, on the other hand, you want to an island as a grab and go station, circular will suffice. If you want portability, choose a square island.

Tips for Kitchen Island Lighting
After you find the right island, you will need proper lighting. Here’s what you can do
• Multi-bulb fixtures
If you want to even out the lighting while at the same time avoid cluttering your sightlines, you can use the multi-bulb fixture as your island’s lighting.
• Dropped Panel
If simple lighting is what you are looking for, try a dropped panel. On one hand, it is easier to install than the other lightings. On the other, it acts as a visual anchor for your island while at the same time provides a space for your electrical wires.
• Pendants
Looking to accentuate the kitchen while giving a good lighting to your island? If that is the case, you’d want to choose pendant lighting.
These are what you need to consider in choosing an island. You need to decide first what kind of function and features you want on an island. Also consider the design, since a different design has different advantages and disadvantages. And after you find the right island, make sure to light it properly, too.